Following the devastating Sir Ivan Bushfire, which burnt out 55,000 hectares in the Leadville, Dunedoo, Cassilis and Coolah districts, local farmers have received extraordinary – and unwavering – assistance from all corners of the country.

A convoy of 80 trucks from southern and central west NSW, organised by Helping Hand for a Mate on the Land, made the trek to Dunedoo at the weekend.

Other deliveries arrived from Denman, Singleton, Muswellbrook and Scone.

And, due to the plentiful supply of hay, a surplus drop was established at Cassilis property, Dalkeith.

“The generosity from communities near and far has been unbelievable,” farmer Damon Soster said.

“Words can’t describe how appreciative the landholders are.

“It’s been a quick response, as everyone’s livestock still needs to be fed.

“In fact, the fodder delivered from throughout the state is a lifesaver to all the farmers.”

Mr Soster’s property suffered minimal damage, compared to some of his neighbours.

He’s nonetheless feeling the pain of those who lost land or cattle.

“The western face of Dalkeith was burnt,” he said.

“We were lucky, however many others [in the area] weren’t.

“But, it’s brought everyone together.

“We’ve also had a lot of phone calls of support.

“Our thanks goes to the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS), especially the local volunteers.

“They really dug deep and made things happen.

“It could have ended so much worse.”

* Continue to stay up to date with the bushfire situation by checking www.rfs.nsw.gov.au, listening to your local radio station or by phoning the NSW RFS Bush Fire Information Line on 1800 679 737;

* For details on road closures, check http://livetraffic.rta.nsw.gov.au Roads may be closed without warning;

* For animal welfare/assistance, phone 1800 814 647;

* For Beyond Blue Support Service, phone 1300 224 636.